Modular Pack System

ABSTRACT

Modular pack systems that may be used for backpacking, biking, hunting, fly fishing, or other indoor or outdoor activities are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system is adjustable to fit different user torso sizes and includes attachment structures that may removably secure various detachable packs, pouches, or containers for different items needed. The attachment structures are generally spaced apart evenly in groupings throughout various locations on shoulder straps, a torso structure, and/or waistband, providing for standardization of pouches for attachment to the harness. Certain embodiments may also include hydration and waist packs, fabric flex points on shoulder straps that provide more flexibility in fitting over the shoulders, an adjustable lumbar support system for additional back support for the wearer, and/or flaps on the waistband for securing excess belt webbing after adjustment by the wearer.

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.60/755,040, filed Dec. 30, 2005, the entire contents of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to pack systems, belts, harnesses andother devices for carrying objects other than in a user's hands andarms. More particularly, the invention relates to methods and systemsfor providing a modular pack and load carrying system including amultifunctional harness with attachment structures for holding differentneeded items.

BACKGROUND

Pack systems and belts have been used to transport items of varioussizes and purposes. Many forms of backpacks, fanny packs, nap sacks,duffel bags, belts, and carriers have been used to carry loads on theback and shoulders or around the waist and are available in varioussizes and shapes. These pack systems are used in walking, traveling,hiking, climbing, and other often strenuous activities. Similarly, toolusers who want to carry tools they may need, such as an electrician'stools or a carpenter's tools, use pack systems, and a police officer orother public safety officer may carry public safety devices that are orutilze pack systems.

Prior modular pack systems have been developed. Although a number ofsuch systems have featured methods for adding packages and containers topack systems, some such systems have drawbacks associated with thecontainer attachment structures, and others do not adequately addressthe wearer's comfort. Some conventional pack systems require a user tocarry multiple items that are not capable of interfacing with oneanother to provide a modular pack system. In other instances, suchadditional parts of a system are totally independent, bulky andcumbersome, and are not particularly attractive. Furthermore, theseconventional systems do not allow for the easy attachment and removal ofmodular components based on advanced modular technology, and none of theavailable systems also allow for a hydration unit that may be removablyattached to the system, as well as providing a lumber support system.

Thus, there is a continuing need for a flexible, highly adaptable systemthat minimizes the need to carry unnecessary packs or components and/orthat accommodates a hydration pack and additional lumbar support, whileproviding a system to conveniently carry diverse types of goods in adiverse range of environments. There is also a need for improved methodsand systems for providing a modular pack system that allows for theefficient and effective attachment and removal of various packs,pouches, containers, or other useful components.

SUMMARY

Certain embodiments of this invention include a modular pack systemcomprising a multifunctional harness and related components. In oneembodiment, a multifunctional harness may be used for backpacking,biking, hunting, fly fishing, or other indoor or outdoor activities,including both work and recreational activities, specifically includingindustrial (like electrical, construction, or carpentry work) andmilitary activities. The harness may be adjustable to fit different usertorso sizes. The harness may have shoulder straps, a torso structure, awaistband, or a combination of any of these that are adjustable. Themodular pack system may include attachment structures capable ofremovably and adjustably securing various detachable packs, pouches, orcontainers for different needed items, such as a GPS unit, knife,flashlight, mobile phone, hunting or fishing equipment, and the like. Inone embodiment, shoulder straps may include fabric flex points thatprovide more flexibility in fitting over the shoulders depending on theadjustment to torso fitting components.

In some embodiments, a modular pack system may be adjustable in thelumbar region, allowing the user to customize the fit of the harness tothe user's unique upper torso. Adjustability may be provided by use ofsuitable adjustable materials such as spandex, which permits stretchingat the neck. Certain embodiments may also include a movable, adjustablesternum strap. In some embodiments, fabrics that reduce noise may beused and are particularly useful in embodiments designed to be used inhunting, where materials that are noisy in use need to be avoided. Incertain embodiments, a modular pack system may include waist straps thatare adjustable or flexible for certain activities such as bicycling.

In some exemplary embodiments, attachment structures, studs for example,are spaced apart at generally consistent distances within differentgroupings at various locations on shoulder straps, a torso structure, awaistband, and other components to permit standardization of attachmentstructure spacing on packs and other items that may attach to themodular pack system. In one embodiment, the stud comprises a head and abase joined by a shank. The stud is inserted into or received in aplastic clip mounted on a pouch, pack, or other item to be carried onthe shoulder straps, waistband, or other part of the system. In oneembodiment, the plastic clip is generally rectangular in shape with aslot for securely receiving the attachment stud in order to hold packsor other attachable components of varying sizes or additional items.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a lower adjustable lumbar supportstrap may surround the waist of the user and may also attach to a packor hydration pack. The lumbar support strap may include attachment studsgenerally evenly spaced along its length. At the end of each of theshoulder strap and the lumbar support strap are male and femalequick-release fastener components securing the harness with the lumbarsupport strap. The lumbar support system may also use a compressionmolded lumbar pad for additional back support for the user. A waistbandmay include fabric flaps on each side that cover part of the lumbarsupport straps and allow the wearer to secure any excess belt webbingafter adjustment. Thus is particularly desirable to wearers engaged inany outdoor, sporting, or similar activity.

In one exemplary embodiment, a modular pack system harness comprises (a)an adjustable waistband comprising two ends and a middle; (b) a torsostructure comprising a bottom attached to the middle of the waistbandand a top; (c) two shoulder straps, each shoulder strap comprising anupper end attached to the top of the torso structure and a lower end;(i) a lower end of one of the two shoulder straps being adjustablyattachable to the waistband between the waistband middle and one of thetwo waistband ends; and (ii) a lower end of the other of the twoshoulder straps being adjustably attachable to the waistband between thewaistband middle and the other of the two waistband ends; and (d) aplurality of first attachment structures secured to the harness, whereinat least two different packs are attachable to the first attachmentstructures utilizing a second attachment structure.

In another exemplary embodiment, a waistband for supporting one or moreof a plurality of packs and accessories comprises a belt to which studsare attached, each stud comprising a shank extending from the belt andtopped by a head, wherein the studs are spaced apart from each otherequidistantly. In another embodiment, a waistband for supporting one ormore of a plurality of packs and accessories comprises: (a) a paddedplate for positioning against a lower back of a wearer of the waistband,the plate comprising a first side edge and a second side edge oppositethe first side edge; (b) waist-encircling structures connected to theplate for encircling a wearer's waist and attaching in the wearer'sfront, the waist-encircling structures comprising: (i) a first belt weband a second belt web; (ii) a first adjustable length lumbar strapattached between the first side edge and the first belt web, and asecond adjustable length lumbar strap attached between the second sideedge and the second belt web; (iii) a buckle for adjustably attachingthe first and second belt webs to each other; (iv) underlying each ofthe first and second adjustable length lumbar straps, padding having anupper edge and a lower edge; (v) a cover overlying each of the first andsecond adjustable length lumbar straps; and (vi) a plurality of studssecured to the covering material.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, a multifunctional modular packsystem comprises a harness with two shoulder straps, at least onetorso-encircling strap, multiple first attachment structures on theharness, and at least two different soft-sided packs; and each packcomprising at least one second attachment structure for mating with oneof the first attachment structures, and at least one of the packs havingat least two second attachment structures.

In another exemplary embodiment, a modular pack system comprises amultifunctional harness assembly comprising shoulder straps, a lowerlumbar support structure, connecting structure located on a distal endof each shoulder strap for securing the distal ends to the lumbarsupport structure, a plurality of studs spaced along a portion of eachshoulder strap and a portion of the lumbar support structure, each studcomprising a shank, and one or more attachable components, eachcomponent including a clip that has a slot configured to securelyreceive a stud by forcing the shaft of the stud beyond a neck in theslot to capture the clip.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, a system for attachment of anobject to clothing or other articles worn by a mammal comprises (a) astud comprising (i) a generally round flat base with a plurality ofprongs extending from a bottom of the base; (ii) a shank having adiameter extending from a top of the base; (iii) a polygonal plate headhaving a thickness, the head attached to an upper end of the shank; and(iv) a threaded hole extending through the base and into the shank forreceiving a screw for securing the stud to a fabric or other flatmaterial by capturing the fabric or other flat material between thebottom of the base and the screw head, while drawing the prongs into thefabric or other flat material; and (b) a clip comprising (i) a baseplate for securing to fabric or other flat material; and (ii) a slotplate attached to the base plate and elevated above the base plate atleast the thickness of the stud head, the slot plate comprising a slotopen at one end and defined by resilient slot sides that form a necknarrower than the shank diameter such that the shank can be forcedthrough the neck to capture the stud within the clip.

Additional embodiments include a method of providing a modular packsystem with one or more of the components described herein and a methodof preparing for an activity including donning a multi-functionalharness and attaching to the harness at least two paks useful in thecourse of the activity by positioning a clip attached to each of thepacks to a stud mounted on the harness.

A few examples of the numerous possible embodiments of this inventionare depicted in the drawings and described in the Detailed Descriptionbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention are better understood when the following Detailed Descriptionis read with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a rear view of one embodiment of a modular pack system of thisinvention with one lumbar strap cover open and one lumbar strap coverclosed.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 withshoulder straps and an upper torso plate detached from a lower torsoplate and waistband.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the shoulder straps of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 with movable, adjustable sternum strap shown attached to theshoulder straps.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of a hydration pack of this invention withthe hydration unit open with a bladder inside and a tube extendingtherefrom.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the embodiment of the modular pack system ofFIG. 1 with embodiment of the hydration pack shown in FIG. 4 mounteddirectly to the modular pack system and the hydration unit closed.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the embodiment of the modular pack system ofFIG. 1 with embodiment of a backpack attached to the modular packsystem.

FIG. 7 is a view of the backpack shown in FIG. 6 in isolation showingthe side of the backpack that mounts to the modular pack system.

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the backpack shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 withthe backpack open and a hydration pack that fits within the backpack.

FIG. 9 is a rear view of the embodiment of the modular pack system ofFIG. 1 with an embodiment of a waist pack mounted to the modular packsystem.

FIG. 10 is a view of the waist pack shown in FIG. 9 in isolation showingthe side of the waist pack that mounts to the modular pack system.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a top and one side of an embodiment ofa stud according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the stud of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the stud of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is an exploded side view of the stud of FIG. 11, an embodimentof a screw that threadably engages the stud, and an embodiment of acover that may cover the stud when not in use.

FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the cover of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one side of an embodiment of a clip ofthis invention.

FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the clip of FIG. 16 that shows the inner,fabric-facing side of the clip.

FIG. 18 is a top view of the clip of FIG. 16 that shows theoutward-facing side of the clip.

FIG. 19 shows the stud of FIG. 11 inserted within a slot of the clip ofFIG. 16.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pack of thisinvention with two clips of FIG. 16 attached to the pack for mountingthe pack.

FIG. 21 is a side view of an embodiment of a duffel bag of the presentinvention.

FIG. 22 is an interior view of the duffel bag of FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings in which like numerals indicate likeelements throughout the several figures, FIG. 1 is a rear view of oneembodiment of a modular pack system 40 in accordance with the presentinvention. Modular pack system 40 includes a harness 42 with twoshoulder straps 44, a torso structure 70, and a waistband 80. In thisembodiment, the structure of each shoulder strap 44 is generally thesame, so further description of an exemplary shoulder strap 44 appliesto both shoulder straps, but it should be understood that someembodiments may include shoulder straps that are not identical to oneanother.

Harness 42 includes padding 50 in the area that is adjacent the wearer'sneck when harness 42 is being worn. Each strap 44 also includes padding48 and an elastic fabric loop 52 attached to strap 44. An elastic fabricincludes any textile fabric with elastic strands, solid elastic bandssimilar to a large, wide rubber band, or any other flexible elasticmaterial. Elastic fabric loop 52 may be used for several purposes,including to hold a tube 116 that is connected to a hydration pack,water bottle, or other liquid source, as is further described below withreference to FIGS. 4 and 5. As shown in FIG. 1, one of shoulder straps44 also includes a tube clip 60 that may be used to assist with keepingthe tube in place along strap 44 and out of the wearer's way.

At a lower end of each shoulder strap 44 is a pivotable buckle 54 forattaching the lower end of shoulder strap 44 to waistband 80 of themodular pack system. One pivotable buckle suitable for use is describedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,860,769, entitled “Combination Buoyancy Compensatorand Support for a Diver's Backpack with a Swivel Buckle and TriangularHolder,” which is hereby incorporated by reference. Another suitablepivotable buckle 54 is available from Duraflex, a licensee of NationalMolding Corporation. Pivotable buckle 54 is attached to a strap 56 thathas a male end 58 of a quick-release fastener on its opposite end. Amale end 58 on each shoulder strap 44 is inserted into a female end 100secured to waistband 80 in order to attach shoulder straps 44 towaistband 80.

Each shoulder strap 44 also includes studs 46 that may be used to attachpacks to harness 42. As used herein, a pack includes any pack, pouch,container, case, kit, organizer, holder, or other attachable componentincluding, but not limited to, a backpack, a waist pack, a bottleholder, a binocular pouch, a drink pouch, a mobile phone holder, a rangefinder pouch, a GPS holder, a radio holder, a flashlight pouch, a knifepouch, a flashlight/knife pouch, a sunglasses case, a camera pouch, anaccessories pouch, a medical kit, an MP3 player pouch, a multi-purposeorganizer, a ripple foam fly pad, a fly fishing organizer or chest pack,a field organizer, a grunt tube holder, a turkey organizer, a turkeyseat, an ammunition holder, a combination of any of the above, or anyother component attachable to one or more studs.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3, 5, 6, and 9, the studs 46 on each shoulder strap44 include two studs 46 near the top of shoulder strap 44 that are nearthe wearer's neck or shoulder tops in use and six studs 46 that arearranged generally in a row down the length of shoulder strap 44 thatare in front of a wearer's chest in use. It should be well understoodthat the particular number of studs or groupings of studs on a shoulderstrap 44, or other part of modular pack system 40, is not limited to thedisclosed embodiments. However, it is desirable to place studs 46 sothat they are a generally consistent, even distance from one anotherwithin a grouping of studs 46.

For example, in one embodiment, the two studs 46 in the grouping at thetop of shoulder strap 44 are spaced about 1.5 inches apart, as are thesix studs 46 in the grouping down the length of shoulder strap 44. Ofcourse, however, there is greater space between the grouping of twostuds and the grouping of six studs than 1.5 inches. Although it hasbeen found that a spacing of 1.5 inches between adjacent studs in agrouping works well, other spacing may be used. The use of generallyconsistently and even-spaced studs permits standardization of attachmentstructure (such as clips 160) spacing on packs that may attach tomodular pack system 40. The structure of an exemplary stud 46 isdescribed further below with reference to FIGS. 11-14. In order toattach to studs 46, a pack preferably includes one or more clips 160,which are described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 16-19.

FIG. 3 shows a front view of harness 42 that includes an adjustablesternum strap 62. Sternum strap 62 comprises two straps 64 and 66. Theadjoining ends of straps 64 and 66 are fastened with a quick-releasefastener 68, and the opposite ends each have a clip (not shown) thatsecures the strap to a stud 46 on each shoulder strap 44. Sternum strap62 adjustably secure harness 42 across a wearer's chest. In oneembodiment, fastener 68 may also be used a distress whistle, and asuitable fastener/whistle is available commercially from ITW Nexus.

Returning now to FIGS. 1 and 2, each shoulder strap 44 contains flexiblefabric such as spandex or LYCRA® for flexible fitting of the shoulderstraps to the wearer and are joined with stitching to a torso structure70 so as to be connected behind the neck of the wearer. Torso structure70 is attached to harness 42 at its top and to waistband 80 at itsbottom. Torso structure 70 comprises two plates, an upper torso plate 72and a lower torso plate 74. Upper torso plate includes two studs 46, onepositioned in each upper corner of upper torso plate 72.

Hook and loop fabric (e.g., Velcro®) is attached to adjacent surfaces ofupper and lower torso plates 72 and 74 so that plates 72 and 74 may bedetachably secured to each other. The use of hook and loop fabric alsoallows the extent to which one of plates 72 and 74 overlies the other ofplates 72 and 74 to be changed, thereby adjusting the height of torsostructure 70. As shown in FIG. 2, upper torso plate 72 and lower torsoplate 74 are detached. As an example, a surface 76 of lower torso plate74 includes loop fabric, and the adjoining underside (not shown) ofupper torso plate 72 includes hook fabric. Either or both of torsoplates 72 and 74 may include padding for contact with the wearer's backin use.

Waistband 80 is attached to the bottom of lower torso plate 74.Waistband 80 include a centrally-located lumbar plate 82. Lumbar plate82 may include padding on its inside surface (not shown) to support thelower back of the wearer when modular pack system 40 is in use. Theoutside surface of lumbar plate 82 includes two groupings of studs 46,as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Lumbar plate 82 may be made from acompression molded panel made from any suitable material such aspolyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or similar materials.

Connected to opposite edges of lumbar plate 82 are two side panels 86. Acomposite of foam bonded to a mesh panel with a foam-knit laminatesecured thereto may form a portion of lumbar plate 82 and side panels86. Extending from the end of each side panel 86 is a belt web 88 thatterminates in a quick-release fastener component. As shown in thefigures, female component 90A is on the left side and male component 90Bis on the right side. A wearer secures waistband 80 around the waist byinserting male component 90B into female component 90A. Each side panel86 also includes a female end 100 of a quick-release fastener configuredto receive a male end 58 to secure shoulder straps 44 to waistband 80.

Each side panel 86 underlies a lumbar adjustment strap 84. Each lumbaradjustment strap 84 extends from an opposite edge of lumbar plate 82 andterminates on the underlying side panel 86, as shown in FIG. 1. Eachlumbar adjustable strap is adjustable so that waistband 80 can betightened or loosened around the wearer's waist as desired. Each sidepanel 86 includes a cover 92 comprised of a bottom fabric flap 94 and atop fabric flap 96.

As shown in FIG. 1, cover 92 is closed on the right side, with bottomand top fabric flaps 94 and 96 attached to one another, and cover 92 isopen on the left side, where fabric flaps 94 and 96 are not attached. Asshown on the left side, the interior surface of top fabric flap 96includes a strip 98 of one of hook and loop fabric. The top of the outersurface (not shown) of bottom fabric flap 94 includes the other of thehook and loop fabric so that fabric flaps 94 and 96 can be detachablysecured to one another using hook and loop fabric, forming cover 92 whensecured. Flaps 94 and 96 of cover 92 provide the wearer with the abilityto secure excess belt webbing of straps 84 underneath the flaps afterthe wearer has adjusted the straps. Thus, cover 92 keeps portions oflumbar adjustment strap 84 from hanging loose during use of modular packsystem 40 or being bothersome for the wearer, which is particularlydesirable to wearers engaged in any outdoor, sporting, or similaractivity.

As shown in FIG. 2, each side panel 86 includes a plurality of studs 46mounted to top fabric flap 96. In the embodiment shown, seven studs 46are mounted to each top fabric flap 96 and are spaced apart in a row ateven distances from one another. It should be understood that more,fewer, or differently arranged studs 46 could be used on a side panel86. In one embodiment, studs 46 are mounted on polyethylene boardstitched in place in modular pack system 40.

FIGS. 11-14 show various views of one embodiment of stud 46. Stud 46includes a head 190 connected to a base 194 by a shank 196. In oneembodiment, epoxy may be used to secure the parts of stud 46 to provideadditional strength. In the embodiment shown, base 194 is generallycircular and of a larger diameter than head 190. Head 190 has agenerally octagonal shape with a slight indentation 192 or inward curvein each side edge. It should be understood that head 190 may be of avariety of polygonal or other shapes and that base 194 may have a shapeother than generally circular. As shown best in FIG. 14, stud 46includes a bottom portion 198 extending down from the center of base194. Bottom portion 198 may be of the same diameter as shank 196 orslightly wider and/or tapered, as shown in FIG. 14. A threaded hole 199extends up through bottom portion 198 and into shank 196. Three pointedprongs 200 extend down from base 194 and are generally located as shownin FIG. 13.

To mount a stud into a polyethylene board, wooden board, or othersimilar mounting material that is typically backed by fabric, a screw202 with threads 204 is threaded into hole 199 in stud 46 from a side ofthe mounting material opposite stud 46. As screw 202 is inserted furtherinto hole 199, stud 46 is pulled into the fabric or other mountingmaterial and prongs 200 extending from base 194 engage the fabric tohelp hold stud 46 in place. A stud cover 206, shown in FIGS. 14 and 15,may optionally be placed over stud 46 when the wearer is not using stud46. In one embodiment, stud cover 206 is a generally oval-shaped domemade of a flexible plastic material and includes a stepped, curvedopening 208 in its underside. Stud cover 206 fits over stud 46 such thathead 190 and shank 196 are covered. This may be useful to keep studs 46that are not in use from catching on or interfering with packs or otherattachable components that are mounted to other studs 46 of modular packsystem 40.

FIGS. 16-19 show various views of one embodiment of a clip 160. Clip 160includes a base plate 162 and slot plate 164. In this embodiment, baseplate 162 has a generally rectangular shape with rounded corners and isopen at one end. Base plate 162 is the part of clip 160 that is mountedor otherwise attached to the pack or other attachable component that ismountable on one or more of studs 46. Slot plate 164 is attached to baseplate 162 and is elevated above base plate 162 a distance that is atleast the same or greater than the thickness of head 190 of stud 46.Slot plate 164 comprises a slot 166 open at one end. Slot 166 is definedby resilient slot sides 168 that form a neck 170 narrower than thediameter of shank 196 of stud 46. Slot 166 and neck 170 are sizedrelative to shank 196 of stud 46 so that shank 196 is forced throughneck 170 to capture stud 46 within slot 166 of clip 160.

FIG. 19 shows a top view of stud 46 captured within clip 160. Clip 160also includes a protrusion 172 with a pointed end. Protrusion 172 ispositioned to prevent free rotation of clip 160 once stud 46 is capturedwithin slot 166. The point of protrusion 172 is located within anindentation 192 in head 190 of stud 46 and provides resistance torotation of clip 160 about stud 46 to keep packs from swinging aboutstud 46 while the wearer is engaged in an activity. However, the wearer,with some applied manual force, may rotate clip 160 about stud 46 into adesired position. For example, an octagonal-shaped head 190 of stud 46provides eight possible positions, as protrusion 172 may rest within anyone of indentations 192. Stud 46 and clip 160 are configured for quiet,easy attachment and detachment from one another. By attaching one ormore clips 160 to a pack, the pack may be mounted to one or more studs46, and thus attached to various locations on modular pack system 40,such as shoulder straps 44, torso structure 70, and waistband 80.

Several exemplary packs are now described with reference to FIGS. 4-10and 20 and may be included as part of modular pack system 40. It shouldbe understood that packs of numerous sizes, types, and configurationsmay be utilized with modular pack system 40 including those shown in thefigures, those identified in the list recited above, or others, and thatthe invention is not limited to the use of a particular pack. Oneembodiment of a hydration pack 10 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4shows hydration pack 110 open, while FIG. 5 shows hydration pack 110closed and mounted to torso structure 70 of modular pack system 40.Specifically, hydration pack 110 includes two clips 160 (not shown) onthe surface adjacent torso structure, and the two clips are mounted onstuds 46 of upper torso plate 72 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Alternatively,hydration pack 110 may be mounted within a backpack 130 that attaches tomodular pack system 40, as shown in the exploded view of FIG. 8. Inanother alternative embodiment, hydration pack 110 (and its contents)may be permanently attached to torso structure 70.

Hydration pack 110 includes an outer fabric shell 112 with a zipper 124to open and close outer shell 112. Outer shell 112 surrounds a bladder114, and a top 122 on bladder 114 may be removed to fill bladder 114with liquid or to empty bladder 114 between uses of hydration pack 110.A tube 116 extends from bladder 114 and has a mouthpiece 118 on its end.Outer shell 112 includes two openings 120 surrounded by elastic fabric,and tube 116 may be inserted through either opening 120 to exit outershell 112. Referring now to FIG. 5, tube 116 may be inserted throughtube clip 60, which is on the left shoulder strap 44 but may be attachedto a stud 46 on either shoulder strap 44. Tube 116 may also be insertedthrough one of elastic fabric loops 52 present each shoulder strap 44.Tube clip 60 and elastic fabric loop 52 aid in holding tube 116 inposition along one of shoulder straps 44 such that tube 116 does nothinder the wearer during the activity in which the wearer is engaged,while also allowing the wearer to position mouthpiece 118 as desired andadjacent the wearer's mouth when modular pack system 40 is being worn.

FIGS. 6-8 show an embodiment of a backpack 130 for use with modular packsystem 40. Backpack 130 includes a plurality of outer pockets 132, azip-out raincover pocket 138 at the bottom, and a handle 144 at the top.Belt webs 134 extend from each side of the central outer pocket 132 andeach includes a female component 136 of a quick-release fastener, asshown in FIG. 6. Straps 140 extend from near the top of central outerpocket 132, and each strap 140 includes a male component 142 of aquick-release fastener. Female components 136 and male components 142attach to components of fasteners extending from straps on the otherside of backpack 130 that are shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 shows a side 158 of backpack 130 that mounts to shoulder straps44, torso structure 72, and waistband 80 of modular pack system 40.Straps 146 extend from opposite edges of backpack 130, and each strap146 includes a male component 148 of a quick-release fastener. Malecomponents 148 may be coupled to female components 136 (see FIG. 6) tosecure belt webs 134 along the sides of backpack 130. A zipped pocket150 may include straps (not shown) that may be used if the wearerdesires to use backpack 130 without the remainder of modular pack system40. Straps 152 extend from the top of side 158 of backpack 130, and eachstrap includes a female component 154 of a quick-release fastener.Female components 154 may be secured to male components 142 (see FIG. 6)to secure the top of backpack 130.

Load-stabilizing buckles 156 are also provided at the bottom of backpack130. Buckles 156 increase the ability of backpack 130 to carry moreweight and to stabilize the load being carried. When using backpack 130with modular pack system 40, it is desirable to detach straps 56 fromfemale ends 100 on waistband 80 and secure male ends 58 of straps 56 tobuckles 156 on backpack 130. This pulls the lower load of backpack 130into the body for load stabilization, in conjunction with two aluminumsupport bars (not shown) in backpack 130.

As shown in FIG. 7, this embodiment of backpack 130 has six clips 160mounted to side 158. Clips 160 engage studs 46 attached to modular packsystem 40 to mount backpack 130 to system 40. As may be seen byreference to FIGS. I and 6, four clips 160 are at the top of backpack130. The uppermost two clips 160 attach to two studs 46, one on eachshoulder strap 44, while the other two clips 160 near the top ofbackpack 130 attach to the two studs 46 on upper torso plate 72. Twoclips 160 positioned near the bottom of backpack 130 attach to the studs46 on lumbar plate, one in each grouping near opposite edges of lumbarplate 82. It should be understood that clips 160 (and studs 46) may bepositioned other than as shown in the drawings, provided that clips 160are positioned to mount to a number of studs 46 on modular pack system40 to effectively secure backpack 130 to system 40.

FIG. 8 shows an exploded view of backpack 130 open and hydration pack110 exploded out of a location in backpack 130 in which hydration pack110 may be mounted. The inside surface of backpack 130 includes twostuds 46 that may be used to mount hydration pack 110 or other packs. Asdescribed above, hydration pack 110 includes two clips for mounting pack110 onto studs 46 inside of backpack 130. Additional studs 46 may bepositioned in various locations inside backpack 130, as well as insideany of outer pockets 132 of backpack 130 or on the outside of backpack130, so that packs or other attachable components may be attached withinor on backpack 130 or its various pockets.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show an embodiment of a waist pack 180 that may be usedwith modular pack system 40. FIG. 9 shows waist pack 180 attached towaistband 80, and FIG. 10 shows a view of the side of waist pack 180that mounts onto waistband 80. As shown in FIG. 10, waist pack 180 hasfour clips 160 that attach to studs 46 of lumbar plate 82. Thus, whenmodular pack system 40 is being worn, waist pack 180 is attached aroundthe back of the wearer's waist. A wearer may use waist pack for storageof items as desired.

Referring now to FIG. 9, waist pack includes a pocket 182 located on itsfront and a top hatch flap 184, both opened with zippers in thisembodiment. Top hatch flap 184 provides easy top entry into the interiorof waist pack 180. The interior of waist pack 180 or pocket 182 may haveorganizers or studs 46 for the attachment or storage of smaller items.Adjustable straps 186 extend from opposite edges of pocket 182 to nearopposite ends of waist pack 180, and webbing of the straps is stitchedto the body of waist pack 180. At the ends of each strap 186 are a clip160 (not shown) that attaches to one of studs 46 on waistband 80. Straps186 then act as additional lumbar support that may be pulled tight sothat waist pack 180 hugs the wearer's body.

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of a generic pack 220 that has twoclips 160 attached thereto for mounting pack 220 on studs 46 of modularpack system 40. As described above, any of numerous types of packs orother attachable components may be used, including, but not limited to,those listed herein and other structures for holding fishing equipment,ammunition, camping equipment, tactical or military equipment,industrial tools, (such as electrical, construction, or carpentry) andthe like. Additionally, certain embodiments of methods of this inventionmay include providing a modular pack system with one or more of thecomponents described herein and preparing for an activity by donning amodular pack system with one or more of such components and attaching tothe system two or more packs useful for the activity.

FIGS. 21 and 22 show a duffel bag 230 that may be used to transport amodular pack system, such as system 40, or other packs. Duffel bag 230has two straps 232 for carrying bag 230. Straps 232 may be securedtogether using a hook and loop fabric cover 234. Elastic straps 240 maybe pulled to secure bag 230 for easy transport on all-terrain vehiclesand the like. Duffel bag 230 also includes pockets 236 on one or moresides for storage. The interior of duffel bag 230 is sized so that ithas sufficient space to hold modular pack system 40. Duffel bag 230 alsoincludes one or more panels 238 that may be detachably removed from theinterior of duffel bag 230 using a hook and loop fabric connection orsimilar mechanism. Each panel 238 has a plurality of studs 46 to allowaddditional packs or other attachable components to be secured withinduffel bag 230. The number of studs 46 on each panel 238 may vary.

The foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention hasbeen presented only for the purposes of illustration and description andis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possiblein light of the above disclosure. The embodiments were chosen anddescribed in order to explain the principles of the invention and theirpractical application so as to enable others skilled in the art to makeand utilize the invention and various embodiments and with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the artto which the present invention pertains without departing from itsspirit and scope.

1. A modular pack system harness, comprising: (a) an adjustablewaistband comprising two ends and a middle; (b) a torso structurecomprising a bottom attached to the middle of the waistband and a top;(c) two shoulder straps, each shoulder strap comprising an upper endattached to the top of the torso structure and a lower end; (i) a lowerend of one of the two shoulder straps being adjustably attachable to thewaistband between the waistband middle and one of the two waistbandends; and (ii) a lower end of the other of the two shoulder straps beingadjustably attachable to the waistband between the waistband middle andthe other of the two waistband ends; and (d) a plurality of firstattachment structures secured to the harness, wherein at least twodifferent packs are attachable to the first attachment structuresutilizing a second attachment structure.
 2. The modular pack systemharness of claim 1, wherein first attachment structures are secured toeach of the waistband and the shoulder straps.
 3. The modular packsystem harness of claim 2, wherein the first attachment structures oneach of the waistband and the shoulder straps are generally positionedin rows such that the first attachment structures within each row aresubstantially equally spaced apart.
 4. The modular pack system harnessof claim 1, wherein each shoulder strap further comprises a pivotablebuckle secured to the lower end for attaching the lower end of theshoulder strap to the waistband.
 5. The modular pack system harness ofclaim 1, wherein the torso structure further comprises: (a) anupward-extending lower torso plate attached the waistband and having aninside; (b) a downward-extending upper torso plate attached to theshoulder straps and having an inside; and (c) one of hook fabric andloop fabric attached to one of the torso plates and the other of thehook fabric and loop fabric attached to the other of the torso plates sothat the plates may be secured to each other with the hook fabric andloop fabric and the extent to which one of the plates overlies the otherplate may be changed to adjust the height of the torso structure.
 6. Themodular pack system harness of claim 5, wherein the lower torso platefurther comprises padding attached to the inside of the lower torsoplate for contact with the user's back.
 7. The modular pack systemharness of claim 1, wherein the waistband further comprises a centrallylocated lumbar plate with padding on an inside and carrying firstattachment structures on an outside.
 8. The modular pack system harnessof claim 7, wherein the waistband further comprises a first belt webbetween the lumbar plate and one of the two ends of the waistband and asecond belt web between the lumbar plate and the other of the two endsof the waistband.
 9. The modular pack system harness of claim 8, furthercomprising a lumbar adjustment strap extending from each of two oppositeedges of the lumbar plate, each lumbar adjustment strap coupled to abelt web.
 10. The modular pack system harness of claim 9, furthercomprising two side panels, each side panel comprising a paddedstructure connected between one of the belt webs and the lumbar plateand underlying a lumbar adjustment strap.
 11. The modular pack systemharness of claim 10, wherein each side panel further comprises an upperedge, a lower edge, a first fabric flap extending from the upper edge tooverlie the associated lumbar adjustment strap, and a second fabric flapextending from the lower edge to overlie the associated the lumbaradjustment strap.
 12. The modular pack system harness of claim 11,wherein the first fabric flap carries first attachment structures andoverlies the second fabric flap and attaches to the second fabric flapwith hook and loop fabric.
 13. The modular pack system harness of claim1, wherein the waistband further comprises at least one side panel, eachside panel comprising first attachment structures.
 14. The modular packsystem harness of claim 13, wherein each side panel further comprises anupper edge, a lower edge, a first fabric flap carrying the firstattachment structures of the side panel, and a second fabric flapextending from the lower edge that attaches to the first fabric flapwith hook and loop fabric.
 15. The modular pack system harness of claim14, further comprising at least one lumbar adjustment strap, wherein thefirst and second fabric flaps of each side panel attach to each other tocover at least a portion of a lumber adjustment strap.
 16. The modularpack system harness of claim 1, further comprising: (a) a bladder forholding water or other fluids and positionable against the torsostructure; (b) a mouthpiece positionable on the harness proximate alocation near a harness wearer's mouth when the harness is being worn;and (c) a tube connected between the bladder and the mouthpiece.
 17. Themodular pack system harness of claim 16, further comprising at least oneelastic fabric loop attached to one of the shoulder straps to hold thetube.
 18. The modular pack system harness of claim 16, wherein thebladder is held within a bladder pack permanently attached to the torsostructure.
 19. The modular pack system harness of claim 16, wherein thebladder is held within a bladder pack alternatively positionable atleast (a) attached to the torso structure, or (b) within a backpackattachable to the harness.
 20. The modular pack system harness of claim1, wherein the plurality of first attachment structures comprises studs,each stud having a shank projecting from a base and topped by a head.21. The modular pack system harness of claim 20, further comprising theat least two different packs, each pack including a second attachmentstructure.
 22. The modular pack system of claim 21, wherein the secondattachment structure comprises a clip having a slot open at one end withresilient slot sides defining a neck narrower than the diameter of theshank of the stud such that the shank of the stud is forced through theneck to capture the stud within the clip.
 23. The modular pack systemharness of claim 20, further comprising studs attached to each of theshoulder straps.
 24. The modular pack system harness of claim 23,further comprising an adjustable sternum strap attachable between a studon one of the shoulder straps and a stud on the other of the shoulderstraps.
 25. The modular pack system harness of claim 24, wherein theadjustable sternum strap includes a quick-release fastener forseparating the sternum strap into two parts, each part attachable to astud on one of the shoulder straps.
 26. The modular pack system harnessof claim 20, further comprising studs attached to the waistbandproximate the middle of the waistband.
 27. The modular pack systemharness of claim 20, further comprising studs attached to the torsostructure.
 28. The modular pack system harness of claim 1, furthercomprising an adjustable lumbar strap having two strap ends, one ofwhich is attached to different points along the waistband.
 29. Themodular pack system harness of claim 1, wherein the waistband furthercomprises a quick-release fastener for securing the two ends of thewaistband to one another.
 30. The modular pack system harness of claim1, wherein the first attachment structures are mounted on polyethyleneboard that is stitched in place.
 31. A waistband for supporting one ormore of a plurality of packs and accessories, the waistband comprising abelt to which studs are attached, each stud comprising a shank extendingfrom the belt and topped by a head, wherein the studs are spaced apartfrom each other equidistantly.
 32. The waistband of claim 31, furthercomprising a pouch comprising at least one clip for mounting on one ofthe studs, and a plurality of pockets for holding tools.
 33. Thewaistband of claim 31, wherein the studs are mounted on polyethyleneboard that is stitched in place.
 34. The waistband of claim 31, furthercomprising a centrally located lumbar plate with padding on an insideand carrying studs on an outside.
 35. The waistband of claim 34, furthercomprising two adjustable length lumbar straps, each strap attached toan opposite edge of the lumbar plate.
 36. The waistband of claim 35,further comprising two side panels, each side panel comprising an upperedge, a lower edge, a first fabric flap extending from the upper edge tooverlie a lumbar strap, and a second fabric flap extending from thelower edge to overlie the lumbar strap.
 37. The waistband of claim 31,further comprising at least one side panel, each side panel includingstuds and further comprising an upper edge, a lower edge, a first fabricflap carrying the studs of the side panel, and a second fabric flapextending from the lower edge that attaches to the first fabric flapwith hook and loop fabric.
 38. The waistband of claim 37, furthercomprising two lumbar adjustment straps, wherein the first and secondfabric flaps of each side panel attach to each other to cover one of thetwo adjustment lumbar straps.
 39. A waistband for supporting one or moreof a plurality of packs and accessories, the waistband comprising: (a) apadded plate for positioning against a lower back of a wearer of thewaistband, the plate comprising a first side edge and a second side edgeopposite the first side edge; (b) waist-encircling structures connectedto the plate for encircling a wearer's waist and attaching in thewearer's front, the waist-encircling structures comprising: (i) a firstbelt web and a second belt web; (ii) a first adjustable length lumbarstrap attached between the first side edge and the first belt web, and asecond adjustable length lumbar strap attached between the second sideedge and the second belt web; (iii) a buckle for adjustably attachingthe first and second belt webs to each other; (iv) underlying each ofthe first and second adjustable length lumbar straps, padding having anupper edge and a lower edge; (v) a cover overlying each of the first andsecond adjustable length lumbar straps; and (vi) a plurality of studssecured to the covering material.
 40. The waistband of claim 39, whereineach cover comprises a first flap of material attached proximate thelumbar strap padding lower edge, a second flap of material attachedproximate the lumbar strap padding upper edge, and hook materialattached to the one of the first and second flaps and loop materialattached to the other of the first and second flaps for closing theflaps over the lumbar strap by securing the hook material to the loopmaterial.
 41. A multifunctional modular pack system, comprising: aharness with two shoulder straps, at least one torso-encircling strap,multiple first attachment structures on the harness, and at least twodifferent soft-sided packs; and each pack comprising at least one secondattachment structure for mating with one of the first attachmentstructures, and at least one of the packs having at least two secondattachment structures.
 42. The multifunctional modular pack system ofclaim 41, wherein the shoulder straps contain elastic material.
 43. Themultifunctional modular pack system of claim 41, wherein the shoulderstraps are joined with stitching to a padded laminate so as to beconnected behind the neck of the wearer in use.
 44. The multifunctionalmodular pack system of claim 41, wherein, when mated, the secondattachment structure is rotatable on the first attachment structure. 45.The multifunctional modular pack system of claim 41, wherein the firstattachment structures comprise one or more groupings of studs, whereineach grouping of studs comprises studs generally in a row and the studsin each row are spaced apart equidistantly.
 46. The multifunctionalmodular pack system of claim 41, wherein each first attachment structurehas a head joined by a central shaft to a generally circular base largerthan the head.
 47. The multifunctional modular pack system of claim 41,further comprising camouflage patterns on at least some of the surfacesvisible during use.
 48. The multifunctional modular pack system of claim41, further comprising a plurality of pockets for holding tools.
 49. Themultifunctional modular pack system of claim 41, further comprising acover positionable over a head of a first attachment structure when thefirst attachment structure is not in use.
 50. The multifunctionalmodular pack system of claim 41, wherein the first attachment structuresare mounted on fabric backed by board.
 51. A modular pack systemcomprising: a multifunctional harness assembly comprising shoulderstraps; a lower lumbar support structure; connecting structure locatedon a distal end of each shoulder strap for securing the distal ends tothe lumbar support structure; a plurality of studs spaced along aportion of each shoulder strap and a portion of the lumbar supportstructure, each stud comprising a shank; and one or more attachablecomponents, each component including a clip that has a slot configuredto securely receive a stud by forcing the shaft of the stud beyond aneck in the slot to capture the clip.
 52. The modular pack system ofclaim 51, wherein the one or more attachable components comprises ahydration pack removably attached to the harness assembly.
 53. Themodular pack system of claim 51, wherein the one or more attachablecomponents comprises a removable backpack.
 54. The modular pack systemof claim 53, wherein the backpack includes an outer pocket having pocketstraps on the sides of the outer pocket.
 55. The modular pack system ofclaim 54, wherein the outer pocket contains studs located inside thepocket.
 56. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the lumbarsupport structure comprises a compression molded panel and a lumbarsupport pad.
 57. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the lumbarsupport structure comprises an adjustable lumbar support strap at leasta portion of which is enclosed within a hook and loop closable textilecover.
 58. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the plurality ofstuds are mounted on polyethylene board that is stitched in place. 59.The modular pack system of claim 56, further comprising a plurality ofscrews, each screw passing through the polyethylene board into anopening in each stud to mount the studs to the polyethylene board. 60.The modular pack system of claim 51, further comprising camouflagepatterns on at least some surfaces of the harness assembly visibleduring use.
 61. The modular pack system of claim 51, further comprisinga plurality of pockets for holding tools.
 62. The modular pack system ofclaim 51, wherein the one or more attachable components comprises apouch comprising at least one clip for mounting on one of the pluralityof studs.
 63. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the one ormore attachable components comprises a structure for holding fishingequipment.
 64. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the one ormore attachable components comprises a structure for holding ammunition.65. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the one or moreattachable components comprises a pack for holding camping equipment.66. The modular pack system of claim 51, wherein the one or moreattachable components comprises a plurality of structures for holdingtactical or military equipment.
 67. The modular pack system of claim 51,further comprising a duffel bag.
 68. The modular pack system of claim67, wherein the duffel bag includes a plurality of studs spaced along aportion of an interior of the duffel bag.
 69. The modular pack system ofclaim 51, further comprising a cover positionable on a stud to which aclip is not attached.
 70. The modular pack system of claim 51, whereinthe studs are mounted on fabric backed by board.
 71. A system forattachment of an object to clothing or other articles worn by a mammal,the system comprising: (a) a stud comprising: (i) a generally round flatbase with a plurality of prongs extending from a bottom of the base;(ii) a shank having a diameter extending from a top of the base; (iii) apolygonal plate head having a thickness, the head attached to an upperend of the shank; and (iv) a threaded hole extending through the baseand into the shank for receiving a screw for securing the stud to afabric or other flat material by capturing the fabric or other flatmaterial between the bottom of the base and the screw head, whiledrawing the prongs into the fabric or other flat material; and (b) aclip comprising: (i) a base plate for securing to fabric or other flatmaterial; (ii) a slot plate attached to the base plate and elevatedabove the base plate at least the thickness of the stud head, the slotplate comprising a slot open at one end and defined by resilient slotsides that form a neck narrower than the shank diameter such that theshank can be forced through the neck to capture the stud within theclip.
 72. The system of claim 71, wherein the clip further comprising aprotrusion to engage an edge of the head to partially resist cliprotation relative to the stud.
 73. A method of providing a modular packsystem, the method comprising: providing a multifunctional harnessassembly comprising shoulder straps; providing a lower lumbar supportstructure; providing connecting structure located on a distal end ofeach shoulder strap for securing the distal ends to the lumbar supportstructure; providing a plurality of studs spaced along a portion of eachshoulder strap and a portion of the lumbar support structure, each studcomprising a shank; and providing one or more attachable components,each component including a clip that has a slot configured to securelyreceive a stud by forcing the shaft of the stud beyond a neck in theslot to capture the clip.
 74. The method of claim 73, further comprisingproviding a duffel bag having a plurality of studs spaced along removalpanels on an interior of the duffel bag.
 75. The method of claim 74,further comprising storing any of the one or more attachable componentsby securing a clip of the attachable component to one of the pluralityof studs inside the duffel bag.
 76. The method of claim 74, furthercomprising storing the modular pack system in the duffel bag fortransport.
 77. A method of preparing for an activity, the methodcomprising: donning a multi-functional harness with two shoulder straps,a waistband, and multiple studs on the harness; and attaching to theharness at least two packs useful in the course of the activity bypositioning a clip attached to each of the packs to a stud mounted onthe harness.
 78. The method of claim 77, further comprising adjusting anadjustable lumbar strap of the waistband about a user's waist.
 79. Themethod of claim 77, further comprising moving one of a lower torso plateand an upper torso plate of a torso structure of the harness relative tothe other to adjust the height of the torso structure.
 80. The method ofclaim 77, further comprising adjustably attaching a distal end of eachshoulder strap to the waistband.